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Kenya Betting License (GRA)

Published: August 1, 2026Updated: July 30, 2026
Kenya (GRA)

A Kenya Betting License is issued under a newly established legal framework dictated by the Gambling Control Act. Under this modernized system, the country has officially phased out the legacy Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) and transferred all regulatory, monitoring, and enforcement powers to the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Kenya (GRA). The High Court of Kenya issued a temporary stay order against specific clauses of the Gambling Control (Licensing) Regulations due to ongoing legal petitions regarding public participation and fee structures. However, the core Act remains the supreme governing law. The GRA issues distinct, specialized permits for both brick-and-mortar operations and the digital iGaming space: - Online Betting Operator License: Mandatory for digital sportsbooks and mobile gaming platforms - Public Gaming / Casino License: Covers brick-and-mortar land-based casinos and integrated electronic gaming lounges - Bookmaker's & Totalizator Licenses: For physical over-the-counter sportsbooks and horse-race wagering - B2B Infrastructure Licenses: Mandatory for third-party software developers, platform aggregators, and equipment manufacturers

Regulatory Body Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA)
Jurisdiction Republic of Kenya
Legal Framework Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act (Cap. 131)
Valid In

Kenya.

Not Valid In

Outside Kenya.

Recognition

National license, key for East Africa.

What This License Covers

Online sports betting operators Land-based betting shops Lottery operators

Financial Requirements

Foreign/International Operator Application Fee Approximately €38 600 to €45 600
Standard Local Processing Fee Approximately €7 000
Security Deposit Online Betting / iGaming Operators Approximately €1 400 000
Security Deposit Land-Based Casinos Approximately €35 000 000
Gambling Tax 15% (GGR)
Withholding Tax on Winnings 20%
Corporate Income Tax 30%
Renewal Cycle Annual
Additional Costs Compliance and legal fees
  • Local office costs
  • Your enterprise must hold a minimum of 30% Kenyan citizen ownership/equity to pass the GRA board review

Special Requirements

  • Local Presence: Must have a physical office and local management.
  • Corporate Structure: Kenyan registered company.
  • Capital Requirements: Must demonstrate financial stability.
  • Technical Requirements: Standard fairness and security.
  • Compliance Obligations: AML/KYC, responsible gambling.
  • Background Checks: Due diligence.

Ideal Use Cases

  • Operators targeting the vibrant Kenyan betting market.
  • Brands expanding in East Africa.